Abstract: The Xigmatek HDT-S1283 heatsink features three heatpipes in direct contact with the top of the processor, resulting in one very potent CPU cooler. The technique is called heatpipe Direct Touch, and for today's class of heatspreader capped processors it's the only way to go.

*Heatsinks are ranked according to
the 150W thermal test results column (rise over ambient temp.). Low
temperatures with low noise levels are considered best. For reference
heatsinks with variable-speed fans, only the high speed (12V) fan test
result is included in the comparison sheet; more detailed results reside
in each specific heatsink review.

The
heat output from Intel processors varies, so Frostytech tests with two thermal values that
represent the upper limits of existing CPU families. With a 150W heat
load applied by the Intel LGA775 version of FrostyTech's synthetic thermal
test platform first, the Xigmatek HDT-S1283 heatsink maintains a temperature of 16.8°C
over ambient (for 50.7dBA noise) at full fan speed. This is an excellent
result for an Intel heatsink, and thrusts the Xigmatek HDT-S1283 heatsink to the number one
position in fact!

The speed of the 120mm PWM fan
on the Xigmatek HDT-S1283 was then reduced from 2200RPM to 1000RPM, decreasing noise levels
to a very quiet 35 dBA. In this scenario the Xigmatek HDT-S1283 held steady
at 19.8°C over ambient - far better than most Intel heatsinks
are able to achieve at full fan speed!

The Xigmatek HDT-S1283 heatsink was next tested on
the Frostytech Mrk.II synthetic thermal test platform with an 85W heat
load; akin to a Core 2 Duo processor.

In
this test the HDT-S1283 maintained a nice 10.7°C rise over ambient
temperature at default fan speed, and 12.7°C at its reduced fan speed.
Once again, the Xigmatek HDT-S1283 heatsink proves its mettle.

Judging
by the test results, the Xigmatek HDT-S1283 carries on where the more
compact HDT-S963 model
left off. The Xigmatek HDT-S1283 features larger 8mm diameter heatpipes and a bigger fan, but
the same proven thermal design. It's a winning combination that allows
the Xigmatek HDT-S1283 to operate very well with a reduced fan
speed, and temperatures aren't sacrificed for the sake of quiet.

Recommended
for high performance Intel and AMD processor cooling.

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